SiJie Sichuan Dishes, Hong Kong

SiJie Sichuan Dishes
Unit 289, 2/f Kowa Building
285-291 Lockhart Building
Wan Chai
T. 2802 2250

This is one odd private kitchen. Located in this nondescript office building in Wan Chai, we actually had to buzz to get in. The pricing is per head, and depending on the number of people in your party, you get to pick from a selection of cold and hot dishes.

As it was just the two of us, our choices were limited to two cold dishes and four hot items from the menu. Sounds organised, except mid-way through ordering, we received a call at the dining place, from SiJie (Fourth Sister) asking when we were due to arrive?!

We tried the chilled cucumber and marinated spicy cold chicken which were superb for getting the appetite going. We then proceeded onto the fish and noodle cooked in a giant dish of oil and chilli, stir-fried frog legs, long beans with mince and a ma po tofu (a spicy tofu stew). Being Sichuan, all dishes were spicy and set the tongue on fire. This was especially nice since the weather was cooling down here.

They serve a mala (tongue numbing) hotpot as well, but we were told you have to order ahead. The meal cost about S$30/US$19 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended.